New record of Allen’s olingo (Bassaricyon alleni) (Carnivora: Procyonidae) for Bolivia.

Abstract

Allen’s olingo Bassaricyon alleni is a poorly documented procyonid in Bolivia, with few historical records, mostly limited to protected areas. Across its range, the species is considered cryptic due to its arboreal habits, nocturnal activity, and generally elusive ecology, which complicate in situ studies. This report presents a new confirmed record of the species, based on direct observation during a nocturnal biodiversity monitoring survey in the Passiflora Wildlife and Flora Reserve, a remnant of Amazonian Forest located in the northern part of La Paz Department, Bolivia. The individual was observed during the rainy season, actively moving through the canopy and feeding on Cecropia sp. fruits. This finding provides valuable information on the presence and activity of B. alleni in a non-protected Amazonian ecosystem that functions as a biological corridor between state-managed protected areas and Indigenous territories. The reserve is under increasing anthropogenic pressure, including illegal hunting and the development of high-voltage power line infrastructure, highlighting the urgency of enhancing conservation strategies in such areas. This new record underscores the need for systematic studies to better understand the species’ distribution, ecology, and vulnerabilities in Bolivia.